Experts highlight risk communication’s role in combating AMR

Experts at a five-day training in Lagos on Tuesday emphasised the importance of effective risk communication in tackling antimicrobial resistance (AMR), a growing global health threat.

AMR occurs when germs resist treatments, making infections harder to treat.

Organised by the Fleming Fund Country Grant (FFCG II) and supported by the UK Government’s FCDO, the training aimed to equip journalists, CSOs, and CBOs with tools to raise AMR awareness.

Managed by Management Sciences for Health (MSH), FFCG II collaborates with various ministries to address AMR across human, animal, and environmental health.

The project focuses on quality data, effective analysis, sharing findings, and promoting sustainable investment.

The experts stressed the need for clear, timely communication to mitigate AMR risks and strengthen Nigeria’s response to this public health concern.

Dr Nafi’u Lawal, an AMR specialist in the animal health sector at Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto, emphasised the importance of real-time information exchange between experts and the public in mitigating AMR risks.

He described risk communication as a vital component of risk analysis, explaining that effective AMR risk communication helped people make informed decisions and ensures that accurate information reached those most at risk, including farmers, healthcare workers, and policymakers.

Lawal highlighted the World Health Organisation’s (WHO) recommendation for clear, consistent, and transparent AMR communication strategies that fostered engagement and empathy without causing panic.

He warned that misinformation and fear could hinder effective responses to AMR threats.

He outlined key principles for AMR communication, including clarifying that bacteria—not humans—develop resistance, using personal stories to create a stronger emotional connection, and framing AMR as a solvable problem to motivate behavioural change.

He also stressed the importance of leveraging trusted voices, such as healthcare professionals, religious leaders, and community influencers, to enhance public awareness and encourage responsible antibiotic use.

Mrs Omolara Oyinlola, a Public Health Specialist, urged government agencies, researchers, and community organisations to adopt a strategic, coordinated approach to AMR risk communication.

She emphasised the need to focus on prevention, responsible antibiotic use, and global collaboration to reduce AMR’s impact.

Oyinlola reiterated that AMR posed a severe risk to healthcare, food security, and livelihoods, underscoring the power of effective communication in safeguarding public health.